Piasa Bird at 900 W. Broadway
Artist: Dave Stevens & community volunteers
Dedicated: 1998
Located at the edge of the Mississippi River less than a mile from downtown Alton, the Piasa Bird Mural is a colorful depiction of the legendary Piasa Bird, spanning 48 feet on a massive limestone bluff. Originating from Illini Indian lore, the Piasa Bird’s mythological significance dates back centuries, with explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Jolliet encountering tales of its existence during their journey down the Mississippi River in 1673.
The mural’s rich history includes multiple renditions painted on the bluffs over the years, with the present iteration resurrected in 1998 through collaborative efforts between the City of Alton and the community.
The park, situated beneath the towering mural, offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and serves as the starting point for the Great River Road bike trail. A multi-million dollar plan that includes water retention ponds, outdoor gathering areas, and an observation deck for the Piasa Bird mural was announced for the park’s redevelopment in 2023. The project, expected to be completed by summer 2025, will construct a 4,500-square-foot visitor center for the city and new parking and landscaping, according to the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau.
Nearby Restaurants & Businesses: Morrison’s Irish Pub, State Street Market, Don & Penny’s, AP Cigar Co., Bentley’s Bar & Grill
